A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Arles?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Arles, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Arles?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Arles, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Arles is more popular for its historical sights. Paphos is more touristy than Arles and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Paphos different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arles and Paphos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paphos or Arles?

Both Paphos and Arles have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paphos that are not to be missed. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Is the Food Better in Paphos or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Arles has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Paphos. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Arles?

Paphos is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Paphos. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Families?

Paphos is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Couples?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Paphos or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paphos is well known for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Paphos. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Paphos or Arles a more walkable city?

Arles is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Arles. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paphos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paphos than Arles. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paphos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paphos than Arles if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paphos.

One day in Paphos or Arles?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this ancient destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Arles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Arles?

Paphos is a fun place to experience. In Paphos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paphos or Arles?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Paphos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Arles. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Arles, we can see that Arles is more expensive. And not only is Paphos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paphos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paphos and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Arles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arles than you might in Paphos.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paphos Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Arles, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Paphos or Arles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paphos or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Arles during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Arles. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Arles. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Arles. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Arles during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arles. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Arles. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Arles. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Paphos